The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) held its 2025 Top Management Retreat in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, focusing on the strategic repositioning of the agency for enhanced national impact. The retreat served as a platform for key stakeholders, including representatives from the legislative and executive branches of government, to reaffirm their commitment to supporting NASRDA’s mission and highlight the critical role of space technology in addressing Nigeria’s security and socio-economic challenges. The overarching theme of the discussions centered on the need for increased investment in space science and technology, fostering stronger inter-agency collaboration, and prioritizing capacity building within NASRDA to maximize its contribution to national development.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Senator Samson Ekong, underscored the National Assembly’s unwavering support for NASRDA, recognizing the agency’s pivotal role in providing solutions to complex national issues, particularly in security and economic development. He stressed the importance of space-based technologies in the modern global landscape, emphasizing that Nigeria must prioritize investments in this sector to remain competitive in the knowledge economy. Akpabio further advocated for enhanced collaboration between NASRDA and the legislature, urging the effective utilization of the agency’s technological capabilities for real-time surveillance and monitoring of security threats, especially in areas with limited governance. This collaborative approach, he argued, would enhance national security and contribute to overall stability.
Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno, represented by his deputy Senator Akon Eyakenyi, commended NASRDA for organizing the strategic retreat, acknowledging its timeliness in addressing the nation’s developmental needs. He urged the agency to focus on intensifying capacity-building initiatives to align its operations with national priorities, emphasizing the importance of developing a skilled workforce capable of leveraging space technology for national advancement. The Governor’s endorsement highlighted the importance of sub-national support for NASRDA’s endeavors and the recognition of the agency’s potential to contribute to regional and national development.
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, represented by Dr. Robert Ngwu, echoed the sentiments of support for NASRDA’s mission, praising the retreat’s visionary theme. He highlighted the significance of space technology as a crucial platform for asserting national sovereignty and bolstering economic resilience. Nnaji’s remarks emphasized the strategic importance of space technology in the context of national development, underscoring its role in enhancing national capabilities and ensuring economic competitiveness on the global stage.
The retreat reiterated the importance of NASRDA’s mandate in providing space-based solutions, including earth observation, communication, navigation, and remote sensing, to address various national challenges. These applications have far-reaching implications for sectors such as agriculture, disaster management, environmental monitoring, and urban planning, ultimately contributing to improved governance and sustainable development. The discussions highlighted the need for a comprehensive national space policy that aligns with developmental goals and provides a framework for strategic investments and collaborations within the space sector.
Dr. Matthew Adepoju, Director General of NASRDA, in his closing remarks, reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to delivering innovative space-based solutions by leveraging indigenous expertise. He emphasized the importance of the retreat in charting a new course for NASRDA, enhancing internal capacity, and strategically repositioning the agency for greater impact. His statement underscored the agency’s commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and strategic planning to effectively fulfill its mandate and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s technological advancement and overall development. The retreat served as a crucial platform for stakeholders to collectively envision the future of Nigeria’s space program and to reaffirm their commitment to its success.
